Booking a cruise is an exciting moment, but many travelers hesitate to pay immediately before confirming plans, coordinating schedules, or reviewing travel budgets. Royal Caribbean—one of the world’s largest and most trusted cruise lines—offers flexible booking systems that allow guests to reserve a stateroom without full upfront payment. However, these policies vary based on itinerary, fare type, region, and specific promotions. Understanding how reservation holds work can help travelers secure the best cabin, lock in early prices, and minimize financial pressure during the planning process.

Why Travelers Prefer Holding a Reservation First

People often seek the “hold now, pay later” option for a range of reasons. For some, it’s about confirming preferred sailing dates before requesting leave from work. Others want to secure a specific stateroom category—especially balcony cabins and suites—that tend to sell out quickly. Many travelers simply want extra time to compare prices, coordinate with family members, or explore travel insurance options. A reservation hold allows them to keep a cabin temporarily locked in, ensuring peace of mind while deciding.

How Royal Caribbean’s Policies Compare to Other Cruise Lines

While many major cruise lines provide similar reservation-hold systems, Royal Caribbean’s approach is considered one of the more flexible ones. Their policies aim to help travelers reserve a spot without unnecessary stress, making the planning experience as smooth as possible. The exact terms, however, depend on region and booking method, so clarity is essential before proceeding.

How Reservation Holds Work at Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers different ways to hold a reservation without immediate payment, but the specifics depend on whether you are booking through Royal Caribbean directly, a travel agent, a promotional fare, or a special booking event. Some regions allow a temporary courtesy hold, while others require a deposit right away.

Courtesy Hold Option

A courtesy hold is essentially a temporary reservation that locks in your stateroom and fare for a short timeframe. However, the availability of courtesy holds changes based on your booking region and how close the sailing date is.

Availability of Courtesy Holds

Royal Caribbean sometimes allows courtesy holds, but they are not guaranteed. The following conditions commonly affect availability:

• Region of Booking:U.S., Canada, and certain international markets usually require a deposit immediately. However, other regions sometimes allow holds lasting 24–72 hours.

• Cruise Date:If the sailing is far in advance, a hold is more likely to be available. Close-in sailings (within 90 days) usually require an immediate deposit.

• Promotional Offers:Special fares, limited-time sales, and deeply discounted promotions often do not permit holds.

• Stateroom Category:Suites and high-demand cabins rarely qualify for a courtesy hold due to popularity.

Duration of a Courtesy Hold

When available, courtesy holds generally last:

• 24 hours (most common)

• 48–72 hours (less common and usually agent-assisted)

Once the hold expires, the cabin is automatically released back into the inventory.

Deposits and Payment Timelines

If a courtesy hold is not available, Royal Caribbean requires a deposit to secure the room. Fortunately, you do not pay the full fare at this stage. Deposits vary depending on:

• Length of the cruise

• Stateroom category

• Region of booking

• Promotional rules

The remaining balance is typically due 75 to 90 days before sailing, depending on itinerary.

Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Deposits

Royal Caribbean offers refundable and non-refundable deposit options. These play an important role in the reservation process, especially if you want maximum flexibility before paying the full cruise fare.

Refundable Deposit Benefits

• Can cancel before the final payment date and receive a full refund

• Better for uncertain travel plans

• Offers flexibility if personal or financial changes occur

Non-Refundable Deposit Benefits and Limitations

• Often comes with lower fares or promotional discounts

• May include added perks depending on the sale

• If canceled, a change fee applies and refunds are not available

Choosing between the two depends on your readiness to commit.

Alternative Ways to Hold a Royal Caribbean Reservation

Even if a courtesy hold is not offered, there are other ways to secure a cabin without paying the full fare immediately. These methods allow travelers to maintain flexibility while planning their perfect cruise.

Working with a Travel Advisor

Travel advisors or agents often have access to flexible booking tools and can sometimes place longer courtesy holds that are not available through the Royal Caribbean website. They may also:

• Hold group space

• Secure promotional deals

• Guarantee pricing for a longer period

• Provide personalized recommendations

Travel agents are especially useful if you need extra time to coordinate with multiple travelers.

Using a Future Cruise Credit (FCC)

If you previously cruised with Royal Caribbean and canceled or adjusted plans, you may have an FCC. These credits can be applied to a new booking to hold a reservation immediately. While this still counts as a form of payment, it does not require new out-of-pocket spending.

Royal Caribbean’s Reduced Deposit Promos

Sometimes Royal Caribbean offers promotions with reduced deposits, allowing travelers to secure their reservation with significantly less upfront cost. These deposits may be as low as:

• $50 per person

• $100 per stateroom

• 50% off regular deposit amounts

Reduced deposits offer a practical alternative to courtesy holds.

When You Should Consider Holding a Reservation

Holding a reservation is ideal in certain circumstances. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey, timing is crucial. Understanding when to use a courtesy hold—or when a deposit makes more sense—can help optimize your booking experience.

When You’re Waiting on Coordination

Planning a group trip with friends or extended family can be challenging. Everyone has different schedules, budgets, and travel preferences. Holding a reservation temporarily gives everyone time to:

• Check work leave

• Confirm availability

• Compare cabin categories

• Review payment expectations

Holds prevent desirable cabins from selling out while the group makes decisions.

When You Want to Lock In Prices

Cruise fares fluctuate based on demand, season, and promotions. If you spot a great rate, securing a temporary hold helps you lock in the price while you think things over. This is especially helpful for:

• School vacation periods

• Holiday sailings

• Itineraries with limited ships

• Specialized routes like Alaska or Mediterranean

When You Need Time to Compare Options

Royal Caribbean operates multiple ships across global destinations. You may want extra time to compare:

• Sailing dates

• Departure ports

• Ship classes

• Dining and entertainment options

A reservation hold allows travelers to explore options without losing their preferred cabin.

Important Considerations Before Holding a Reservation

While holding a reservation provides flexibility, there are some important details travelers should keep in mind to avoid unexpected issues.

Holds Are Not Guaranteed

Even if you contact Royal Caribbean customer service, courtesy holds may not be available at all times. Cabin inventory fluctuates constantly, and policies may change during high-demand seasons.

Holds Can Expire Automatically

If you do not complete the booking before the hold expires:

• The cabin is released

• Prices may increase afterward

• Promotions may no longer apply

Always set reminders and finalize before the deadline.

Promotions May Not Apply After the Hold

Certain discounts, onboard credits, or special fares may not be guaranteed after the courtesy hold expires. If availability changes, you may lose access to the initial offer.

Pricing Is Dynamic

Cruise pricing is not fixed. It behaves similarly to airline pricing—meaning fares can increase or decrease rapidly. Holding a reservation helps secure pricing, but only until the hold expires. After that, new rates may apply.

Tips for Successfully Using Royal Caribbean Reservation Holds

Whether you're new to cruising or a seasoned traveler, following these tips ensures you use the hold system to your advantage.

Contact Royal Caribbean Directly

Calling Royal Caribbean can sometimes yield better results than booking online. Representatives may manually place holds that are not available through the website interface.

Use a Certified Travel Agent

Travel agents often have:

• Group rates

• Exclusive promotions

• Extended courtesy hold windows

This approach is ideal if you’re planning far in advance.

Book Early for Better Flexibility

The earlier you book, the greater the likelihood of securing a hold. Booking early in the release cycle—often 18 to 24 months before sailing—provides maximum flexibility and the best fares.

Consider Booking Refundable Deposits

If courtesy holds are unavailable, choosing a refundable deposit offers similar flexibility. You can secure the cabin and price without worrying about long-term commitment.

Monitor Prices Before Final Payment

Even after placing a deposit, Royal Caribbean sometimes permits price adjustments if fares drop. Keeping an eye on rates can help you save money before the full payment is due.

Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean offers several ways for travelers to hold a reservation without paying the full fare immediately. While courtesy holds may be available depending on region, itinerary, and promotional rules, they are not guaranteed. However, alternatives such as working with travel advisors, using reduced deposits, or leveraging future cruise credits allow you to secure a cabin and lock in pricing with minimal financial commitment.

The key to a smooth, stress-free booking experience is understanding how these policies apply to your specific cruise. By exploring your options early, asking the right questions, and planning ahead, you can reserve your ideal cabin on the perfect Royal Caribbean sailing—even if you’re not ready to pay right away.